Trafford in town as FA Cup takes centre stage at the APEC

The Emirates FA Cup is back in focus this Saturday after our memorable run last season to the Fourth Qualifying Round.

Visitors Trafford are no strangers to APEC Taxis Stadium. Nor is their new striker Ryan Brooke.

It will be very strange to see Brookey line up against us in opposition colours.

Trafford beat Worsbrough Bridge 2-0 away from home to reach this Preliminary Round stage.

We last met as recently as April 3rd, when Harry McGee's stunning late free-kick earned us a hard-fought 2-1 win at Shawe View, Trafford being unable to stave off the threat of relegation from NPL West.

After defeating Longridge Town 3-0 in a home NWCL Premier Division opener, Trafford lost their first away game at Ramsbottom by the same scoreline.

But they won 3-0 at Abbey Hey on Tuesday to back up Saturday's 4-0 Isuzu FA Vase First Qualifying Round triumph at Armthorpe Welfare.

RUNCORN LINNETS v Trafford

Emirates FA Cup Preliminary Round

Saturday, August 22nd 2026 (ko 3pm)

APEC Taxis Stadium, Stockham Lane, Murdishaw, Runcorn, WA7 6GJ.

• Admission £12, Concessions £9, Under 18s £3.

• Free car parking

• Licensed bar open and hot food available from canteen.